Pacific Fusion is pioneering advancements in pulsed magnetic nuclear fusion, and we are seeking a Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer to join our Optical Diagnostics Group. This engineer will play a key role in the design, development, integration, and testing of advanced opto-mechanical systems that enable high-precision diagnostic measurements in extreme fusion environments.
Pacific Fusion is pioneering advancements in pulsed magnetic nuclear fusion, and we are seeking a Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer to join our Optical Diagnostics Group. This engineer will play a key role in the design, development, integration, and testing of advanced opto-mechanical systems that enable high-precision diagnostic measurements in extreme fusion environments.
Design, model, and analyze opto-mechanical systems for high-energy plasma diagnostics, including optical sensors, imaging systems, and laser-based measurement tools.
Develop robust and radiation-resistant optical systems capable of operating in high-temperature, high-magnetic-field, and high-vibration environments.
Collaborate closely with physicists, engineers, and experimentalists to define optical system requirements for plasma diagnostics and high-speed imaging.
Perform opto-mechanical simulations (thermal, structural, and optical) to optimize system performance under extreme conditions.
Design precision optical mounts, beam delivery systems, and shielding to ensure optical integrity in a fusion reactor environment.
Specify, prototype, and validate optical components, including lenses, mirrors, fiber-optics, and detectors, ensuring they meet stringent performance requirements.
Utilize CAD and optical design software to create models, tolerances, and technical documentation for optical systems.
Integrate optical diagnostics into the overall fusion reactor experimental setup, ensuring alignment with other diagnostic and engineering systems.
Support design-for-manufacturing (DFM) efforts, including material selection for high-temperature, high-radiation conditions.
Work with external vendors, suppliers, and internal teams to source and fabricate custom optical components.
Develop and execute calibration and validation procedures for optical diagnostics, ensuring measurement accuracy and repeatability.
Maintain and improve optical diagnostic systems for long-term fusion experiments, troubleshooting performance issues as they arise.
Extensive experience in the Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or related field.
Strong background in opto-mechanical design for extreme environments, ideally in fusion energy, high-power lasers, plasma physics, aerospace, or similar high-energy physics fields.
Expert-level proficiency in CAD software (Creo preferred) for opto-mechanical component and system design.
Hands-on experience with optical metrology and alignment techniques, including interferometry, wavefront sensing, and high-precision positioning systems.
Experience designing radiation-resistant and thermally stable optical systems.
Knowledge of fiber-optic systems, laser diagnostics, and high-speed imaging sensors.
Ability to work cross-functionally with physicists, electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, and experimentalists in a dynamic research setting.
Experience with vibration isolation, thermal analysis, and structural FEA simulations for opto-mechanical systems is a plus.
Familiarity with vacuum systems, cryogenics, and high-power laser optics is a plus.
Industry-competitive salary
Equity plan
6% employer 401k matching
Generous paid time off (including sick leave, vacation, paid family leave)
Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
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At Pacific Fusion, we are on a mission to change the energy landscape by developing groundbreaking technologies to harness clean, abundant fusion energy. We are thrilled to announce an opening for a Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer in our San Leandro office, joining our innovative Optical Diagnostics Group. You'll dive deep into creating advanced opto-mechanical systems that are critical for high-precision diagnostics in extreme fusion environments. Your day-to-day will be a mix of designing, developing, and testing complex optical systems essential for understanding high-energy plasma behavior. You'll collaborate with a brilliant team of physicists and engineers, ensuring that our systems meet the rigorous demands of a fusion reactor. If you have a knack for problem-solving and a passion for pushing the boundaries of optical engineering in high-stakes settings, you’ll find a welcoming environment here at Pacific Fusion. The ideal candidate has extensive experience with opto-mechanical designs and thrives in collaborative, fast-paced environments. If you are ready to take on challenges that drive the advancement of renewable energy solutions, we can't wait to meet you! Your work will not only contribute to the success of our ambitious goals but also make a meaningful impact on the world’s energy future.
Affordable fusion power inspired by nature. We’re taking an approach based on established science and designing for scale from the beginning. We will be sharing more soon.
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